Proteinuria
Proteinuria: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Proteinuria is a condition in which proteins, specifically albumin, are present in the urine. Proteinuria is detected by performing a urine test and is sometimes referred to as "protein in the urine" or "albuminuria." The presence of excess protein in the urine can indicate a number of different illnesses, including kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, and lupus.
A normal range for protein in the urine is 0-150 mg/dl, and a level higher than this indicates proteinuria. It's important to note that proteinuria isn't a stand-alone diagnosis, but rather a symptom of an underlying health issue. As such, it's important to seek medical attention to rule out any underlying issues.
Causes of Proteinuria
As mentioned, proteinuria is a symptom, one that may be caused by a variety of different illnesses. Common causes of proteinuria include:
- Kidney Disease
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Heart Disease
- Lupus
- Infection
- Allergic Reactions
Symptoms of Proteinuria
In some cases, there may be no symptoms at all and proteinuria may only be detected on a routine urine analysis. However, other symptoms may include:
- Foamy urine
- Reduced urine output
- Swelling in the hands, feet, and eyes
- Fatigue
Treatment of Proteinuria
The treatment for proteinuria will depend on the underlying cause. As such, it's important to visit your doctor if you experience any of the symptoms mentioned above. Treatments may include lifestyle changes, such as a low-protein diet and weight loss, as well as medications. It's also possible that a biopsy of the kidneys may be done to diagnose the cause of the proteinuria.
In more severe cases, dialysis may be necessary to control the protein levels in the blood.
Conclusion
Proteinuria is a condition in which proteins, specifically albumin, are present in the urine. It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms to detect the underlying cause and commence appropriate treatment. It’s likely your treatment plan will involve lifestyle changes, medications, and in more severe cases, dialysis.